Dun Fort ― Duskendale…

As the sun shined brightly, the town of Duskendale sparkled in the early morning light. Enclosed by towering walls, it served as the home of House Darklyn and boasted a bustling port on Blackwater Bay. Lord Gunther Darklyn, who had close ties to his uncle Ser Steffon of the Kingsguard, extended his hospitality to Princess Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon after they were banished from King's Landing. It had been six years since the day Daemon and Rhaenys defied precedent and married each other in an old Valyrian ceremony without the consent of the king or council. Still, even they knew they were constantly watched to ensure they did not commit any more follies. So, accompanied by their children Jacaerys, Lucerys, Joffrey Velaryon, and Rhaena Targaryen, they were welcomed into the Dun Fort, a squat square stone castle with giant drum towers overlooking the port. While his advisors suggested they stay at the Seven Swords inn, Lord Gunther decided to grant the Targaryen family the privilege of staying in one of the most luxurious rooms in his castle as a gesture of goodwill.

Prince Jacaerys, Rhaenyra's sixteen-year-old son, became a handsome teenager who took a proactive approach to his studies and immersed himself in learning High Valyrian. Responsible, bold, and politically savvy, he was determined to master his mother's native language, which was widely spoken among their family members. He was often seen deep in thought with his lips slightly pursed as he studied. Gah, this would be much easier if… no! No, Jace. Don't even think such thoughts. Rise above it. You're a prince; you know you're better than this. If Jay can do it, so can you. Although he had a solid resolve to become a respected leader, it seems that Jace has moments of frustration and anger when faced with challenges or provoked. "'The Conqueror and his sisters sailed with a great army,'" he resumed his lessons.

"Se Blākuata Rāsho drāñot vilinio viārtis," Gerardys proceeded in High Valyrian. A maester of the Citadel renowned for his exceptional capabilities as a healer, he was assigned to serve as Princess Rhaenyra's personal maester. Such a prestigious appointment bears testament to his expertise and unwavering commitment to the art of healing.

"'And landed at the Blackwater Rush.'"

Rhaenyra, now pregnant with her sixth child, entered the room. She was proud of her firstborn and watched him. The Realm's Delight wore a decadent off-the-shoulder black dress with two red dragons stitched to the bodice of her garment, paying to her family of House Targaryen. Rhaenyra had also taken on the crucial role of caring for her growing family as a devoted mother. Her union with Daemon had been fruitful, resulting in the birth of two more children with a third on the way. They had sent letters to King's Landing requesting permission to introduce their offspring to the court, but so far, the only response had been silence. But Rhaenyra knew the reason for the silence. The king, who was always kind and forgiving, was willing to forgive his daughter and brother's transgressions. But her brother Aeonar, however, was not as gracious as their father and refused to allow either of them to return to an unstable court. "'Drāñot,'" she assisted. Despite her son's commitment, Rhaenrya did feel Jace was pushing himself a little too hard.

Jacaerys noticed his mother's presence. "Drāñot. Drāñot…" Come on; you know this word. "'At the end'?" he asked.

"The mouth."

"Mouth! Mouth, mouth, mouth. Come on, Jace, you knew that. You've been told this word countless times! Drāñot. Drāñot…"

"Drāñot vilinio viārtis―" Gerardys resumed his instructions.

"Drāñot," Jacaerys muttered as he strived to improve daily, never letting himself off the hook for any mistakes or slip-ups. "Drāñot… Ah! Come on, Jace. You know this one. Gods, where is Jay when you need him…" he reprimanded himself.

Rhaenyra walked to the other side of the room where her third son, Prince Joffrey, was reading a book with one of Duskendale's many septas. At six years old, his brown eyes, hair, and pug-nose had become more distinct, similar to his older brothers. "Perhaps that's enough for this morning," she recommended.

"Mother's right, Jace," Lucerys agreed. "You've been pushing yourself a little too hard―"

"No! No, no. I want to keep going," Jacaerys was distressed as he waved his hands frantically, begging them not to end his tutoring. He took a deep breath, composing himself before finally exhaling. "Maester," he motioned.

"Guēsi ropakakson Āegon ūndas." Gerardys repeated in High Valyrian.

"Ahem! Well… 'Aegon… ordered that the trees should be… killed.'" Jacaerys looked around confidently, eagerly seeking confirmation on whether he had gotten it right or not.

"'Felled.' It is a related word that can be interchangeable with the word killed depending on the context," Rhaenyra gently corrected her son. However, he didn't seem too pleased about it as he slapped himself on the forehead with his palm in exasperation. "But I don't expect you to learn High Valyrian in a day, Jace. Knowing its dialect and fluidity is a process that requires a considerable amount of time, patience, and practice."

Jacaerys stubbornly shook his head. "I am a prince of the royal House Targaryen and heir to the esteemed House Velaryon of Driftmark, both of which trace their lineage back to the ancient civilization of Old Valyria; I'm expected to possess a fluency in my mother tongue akin to that of my predecessors. Moreover, this proficiency is of utmost importance. As heir to the Driftwood Throne, it is my responsibility to honor the traditions of my forebears."

"Learning a new language can be challenging, especially when starting later in life. However, I, too, speak the Common Tongue fluently just as much as anyone else and empathize with your journey to learn High Valyrian, which began around when I was Joffery's age. So unless you're determined to tire yourself out, you have plenty of time to study. I understand it may feel like time is running out, but it won't be the end if you rest your mind for a moment. You are young, Jace. Sixteen years old. And the future is always uncertain. It can be overwhelming to carry all of life's burdens alone. But remember that when the day comes you become Lord of the Tides, your family will always support and pick you up when life knocks you down. They'll be a strong and dependable presence in your life. Do you understand?"

Jacaerys, the Velaryon prince, faced yet another obstacle in his journey to self-improvement. Despite his unwavering dedication to bettering himself, there were times when he would forget that he was still a mere mortal with limitations. This realization often left him feeling disheartened and frustrated. However, his mother always reassured him that he had time to overcome these hurdles and move forward. In addition, Jace took comfort in the knowledge that he was the son of Ser Laenor Velaryon and grandson of Lord Corlys, the legendary Sea Snake.

Moreover, he was the designated heir to Driftmark, a title that held great responsibility. If he were to fulfill his destiny as the Lord of the Tides and Master of Driftmark, Jacaerys knew he needed to cultivate patience as a vital virtue. Only then could he hope to lead his subjects on Driftmark fairly and wisely, just as his forefathers had done before him.

After a considerable period, Daemon ultimately returned from the shoreline. However, before doing so, the Rogue Prince dedicated his time overseeing numerous enhancements to the nearby fishing villages. Only after completing the tasks did he rendezvoused with Prince Daeron, but only in secrecy to avoid catching Aeonar's attention. Instead, their meeting aimed to aid the Dragonkeepers on Dragonstone and explore the intricate caves where dragons once made their homes. The team aimed to collect as many eggs as possible to be placed in the warming chamber for safekeeping. During this time, Daemon couldn't help but be amused by Daeron's boldness and aggression. The young prince's actions and demeanor reminded the Rogue Prince of himself in his prime.

Rhaenyra noticed her uncle-husband's return. "What is it?" she asked.

Daemon handed his third wife a message, the wax seal broken and left open. "Read it for yourself," he stated.

As Rhaenyra scanned the letter, her heart began to race, and she couldn't help but notice the seriousness etched onto Daemon's face. Even though they were exiled, they still had their connections to the world. Daemon had friends in the City Watch, while Rhaenyra had her allies in court, such as Lord Allun Caswell. However, the letter's contents widened her eyes, and her jaw clenched tightly with anger. The tension in the room was palpable as they both realized the gravity of the situation. "What's the meaning of this?!" she demanded.

"Mother? What is it?" Lucerys asked, concerned.

"Your grandfather, Lord Corlys, was wounded in battle. They speculate he might not survive." Rhaenyra clenched the letter in her hands. "But instead of having the dignity to pray for his brother's safety and being concerned for his well-being, Ser Vaemond has instead gone to the capital to press that he should be made heir of Driftmark."

Now Jacaerys looked visibly offended. "I am grandfather's rightful heir!" he exclaimed, pointing toward himself. "Has uncle Vaemond gone mad?!" he expressed disbelief at Vaemond's actions.

"He was always ambitious and bitter about being in your grandfather's shadow," she spoke aloud as Rhaenyra's thoughts raced. It was clear that Vaemond intended to question Jacaerys's legitimacy and, in turn, the legitimacy of all her children. The mere thought of it made her banish the idea from her mind. She was not going to let that happen. After all, Vaemond was a greedy eel. But she couldn't be sure if her brother would overturn her eldest son's claim to Driftmark and control of House Velaryon's fleet out of spite. Their last encounter had ended sourly, making her uneasy about the possibility. However, she couldn't let such a challenge to her children's claim go unanswered. "He means to call into question Jace's legitimacy," she told Daemon. "And, by extension, Luke and Joffrey."

"Vaemond only cares about Driftmark and the Velaryon line. Not about our politics," Daemon dismissed. "Has he made contact with Unwin Peake yet?" he asked.

"Not yet, but I wouldn't put it past him. I tried writing to Aeonar and Alicent many times for the past six years, but I've yet to get an answer from them. Yet that's not all. Rhaenys has flown to court. Surely, she cannot hope to back him?"

"No. Whatever disagreements we may have had, Rhaenys has no love for Vaemond. She's not cruel or stupid enough to do that. No, I imagine she may have reached out to Aeonar and made an accord. She's taken Baela to ward, and I've heard rumors that Jaehaerys has been seen accompanying her on more than one occasion. Whatever the case, they're up to something."

"Yes, only because it is Laena's memory she honors," Rhaenyra pointed out.

Daemon scoffed. "Has the vipers' venom spread so far?"

"Please. My brother rules in our father's name," Rhaenyra rolled her eyes. "And father, well, he―" However, as she read the letter, her attention was caught by something unusual. When the sunlight hit the parchment, she noticed an unfamiliar pattern hidden within the message. Curious, she leaned in for a closer look and discovered that the runes in High Valyrian had been rearranged strangely. The letters and phrases were cleverly encrypted to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. However, Rhaenyra identified Aemma's handwriting and realized it was a message from her niece! Although the letter initially seemed ordinary, the hidden message became visible when held above the burning coals. Rhaenyra had learned this trick from Aeonar several weeks after their mother's demise, and it involved deciphering and decrypting concealed messages. "Wait…"

ooOoo

Flashback: 20 years ago (112 AC)…

"This isn't one of your 'lectures,' is it?" Rhaenyra inquired.

"You might think so," Aeonar replied, "but it was the same 'lecture' that our father gave me before I was named his heir seven years ago. He spent so much time focused on me that you were often ignored. But you had me. As big of a pain in my ass and the pest you were, you were still my sister, Rhaenyra. I love you. And that will never change."

"I know, and I'm grateful. I love you too, brother. But why are you telling me all this now?"

"Because there's a talent laid dormant in you waiting to come out. You might not know it now, but you have a sense of destiny about you, Rhaenyra. That you will one day leave your mark on the world. As Master of Whisperers, my duty was to lurk in the shadows to identify those in our inner circle and other malcontents who seek to sow chaos to reap the benefits for their benefit. That means having to make tough decisions no one else would take. And sometimes, the right choice is never the easiest to make. Every Targaryen must be trained to meet the challenges and understand the burden that comes with being an heir if they are to become King… or Queen."

"What are you implying? You're father's heir and my brother, Aeonar. So your place is here."

"I need some time away from this place. Our father's actions have tainted every good memory here. I cannot say how long I will be gone, but I cannot stay here. But remember: a sharp mind, utilized in the proper fashion, will always triumph over the malcontent. Therefore, it would be best if you took this time to hone your talents, Rhaenyra. Forge your path just as I must with mine." Aeonar then handed his sister a scrolled paper. "In the meantime, I need you to keep an eye on things for me."

"And what is it you want me to look for?" Rhaenyra asked.

"Be wary of treachery lurking in every corner. You will serve as our royal spymaster in my stead. My agents will have already been informed. They will answer directly to you now until my return. But do not worry. I have left instructions in my chambers for you to follow so you do not feel lost or misled. And if you catch so much as a whiff of treason from anyone―"

"Heads, spikes, walls. But why me?"

"You're my sister, Rhaenyra."

ooOoo

Translated from High Valyrian to the Common Tongue, the letter read:

Amīsagon sagita
(Be on guard.)
Kelinītsos eglie qrimpālegon iemnȳ.
(The likelihood of betrayal from within is high.)

"'Be on guard; the likelihood of betrayal from within is high,'" Rhaenyra translated the hidden message aloud. As she read the letter, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. It seemed too convenient, too carefully worded. Her nephews and niece often visited her and her children but never mentioned Aeonar. When Rhaenyra finally asked them about their father, they were evasive. Their silence on Aeonar made her uneasy. Only now did she understand the gravity of their omission. After re-reading the letter, she realized it was a cry for help, a plea from her family still in King's Landing who needed her help. Jaehaerys, Aegon the Younger, Viserys, Aemma, and Daeron were all reaching out to their dear aunt Rhaenyra for help.

But betrayal from whom? Rats and devils of every shape and size infested the walls of the Red Keep.

Would Aeonar really turn his back on me? It was a fleeting thought, quickly dismissed. After all, they were still brother and sister, no matter how far their estrangement was. Aeonar's support was also heavily reliant on the powerful Velaryon fleet and the wealth of Driftmark, which made it highly unlikely that he would betray her. Besides, Vaemond, who had no love for her brother, would have no reason to continue the alliance Aeonar had forged with Corlys.

The Caltrops are expected to oppose Jacaerys from inheriting Driftmark and the Velaryon fleet. Instead, they will likely try to establish his illegitimacy as a bastard of House Strong due to his striking resemblance to Ser Harwin Strong. Vaemond's decision to pursue this risky move was made possible through the backing of the Caltrops and their knowledge of inheritance laws.

Within the intricate politics of the Targaryen dynasty, there existed Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, known as the Queen Who Never Was. It was no secret that she held little affection for Rhaenyra, another royal family member. However, her relationship with Jace, Luke, and Joff was much different - she cared for them even knowing they were not her biological grandsons. Given this information, it may be wise to utilize Rhaena as an intermediary when dealing with Rhaenys. Furthermore, there is a strong likelihood that Rhaenys will be more receptive to communication if it comes from one of her beloved granddaughters, Baela and Rhaena. They were the only part of her daughter Laena that she had left in this world.

Daemon could sense that his niece-wife was going through a tough time. He gently placed his hand on her pregnant belly, providing her the comfort she needed. Rhaenyra had already given him two sons, Aemon and Baelon; another child was on the way. However, despite all this, Daemon knew that Rhaenyra still cared deeply about Aeonar and his children. He could understand the pain she was going through. As they both wondered about the condition of King Viserys, whom Daemon hadn't heard from in a while, the Rogue Prince couldn't help but recollect the last time he and his older brother spoke in person. Viserys was in a sorry state, looking like he was struggling to walk and had to rely on a cane to keep himself steady; he appeared much older than he was; and had lost his left arm from the disease. "To King's Landing, then," he said.

Rhaenyra nodded, affirmed. "To King's Landing. It's time to end this mummer's farce," she said with a fiery resolve. If Beatrice wants a fight, it's a fight she'll get.

King's Landing ― Near the Red Keep…

The journey to King's Landing was quite an experience. Upon arrival, Rhaenyra and Daemon immediately noticed many changes in the city. The symbols and statues they once knew were remodeled or replaced with new ones. For example, they saw statues representing the Faith of the Seven in one corner, complete with the Seven-Pointed Star displayed in the windows. But in another area, they noticed statues and relics modeled after the Old Gods of the Valyrian pantheon and ancient dragon statues. It was a sight to behold!

As Rhaenyra and Daemon approached the Red Keep, a flicker caught their eye. A slender tail emerged from the shadows and began to sway. It was in motion in no time, dancing to an invisible beat. Suddenly, they were met with an unexpected obstacle: Vaelor, the dragon guarding the main route. The massive beast had grown in size since they last saw him six years ago, measuring an impressive 248 feet in length and standing two-thirds of Vhagar's height. The smallfolk were in awe of his black scales and crimson-red eyes, and some even compared him to the legendary Balerion, calling him the Black Dread reincarnate. Vaelor was clearly not in the mood for visitors, baring his teeth and growling menacingly. But as he sensed the Targaryen blood in Rhaenyra and Daemon, he allowed them to pass through with a snort. The ground shook with each of his thundering footsteps as he walked away.

"He's… getting bigger," Lucerys remarked with a hint of fear.

Jacaerys ridiculed his younger brother and reminded him of his lessons. He quoted directly from the book of Septon Barth. "'Dragons, in keeping with their reptilian appearance, grow rapidly until they reach the full phase of maturity. After which their growth rate slows but continues until death.'"

Rhaenyra wanted to admonish her eldest son for his tone but couldn't help but be impressed by his knowledge of dragonlore.

Daemon kept his eyes on Vaelor until they were entirely inside the Red Keep. "It won't be much longer until he cannot fit in the courtyard." He observed. "Even the Black Dread had grown so big that it could not exit the Dragonpit anymore. Not that he ever did after Viserys road him once." He said, remembering the day his brother took flight on the Conqueror's dragon and how he had sobbed when Balerion had breathed his last breath.

The carcass had been so gigantic that it could not be moved. And the smell of the rotting body wafted through the city. The Old King Jaehaerys had summoned an army of skinners, tanners, and maesters to the capital to strip and dispose of putrefying flesh from the dragon. It had taken a solid week of work before only the bones remained. Finally, the skull was placed in the Red Keep; half of the remaining bones were sent to Oldtown to be studied by the Citadel, while the other half had been shipped back to Dragonstone. It had been a significant event; escorts of knights and Dragonkeepers had been needed to ensure thieves and vagabonds didn't attempt to abscond with the valuable dragon bones.

As Daemon thought about the valuable dragon bones, he couldn't help but recall his brother. It had been six long years since they last saw each other, and he couldn't shake the worry that the disease had ravaged his brother's body. The memory of Balerio's condition haunted him. Would Viserys suffer the same fate?

He would soon find out.

Chapter End

Author's Note: This section will be split into a few parts, but we're now at the scene where Rhaenyra and Daemon return to King's Landing to face the music. Vaemond has called Jacaerys's legitimacy into question, and Rhaenyra will have to represent her son to uphold his claim to Driftmark. But how will the rest of the royal family react to seeing them again? Find out next time.

garrysprawson123: I have this question, will Aeonar defend Rhaenyra's children or she will handle it herself, because Rhaenyra really screwed this time and its all her fault

―She'll have to handle it herself

randomdude24: Getting closer to the powder keg that's about to blow between the Black and Caltrops. I have to ask, I recently came across your fanon page for this story so I know what really starts the war. Are blood anc cheese going to have any impact on this story? Or have devised an alternative method for this story?

―You can't have the Dance of the Dragons without Blood and Cheese. The location of where they're going is different this time.

Moran: So they have a way to secretly communicate through hidden messaged. I wonder if they have other ways like hand signs, morse code, heat-expose invisible ink, art/embroidery-hidden messages, etc.

For those who don't know, Relegion tolerance is one of Old Valyria's customs to keep the conquered civilizations in line, and knowing that forcing them change their religion would take too much effort. Aeonar "publicly worshiping" the Seven is a good political move and while he married her for love, wedding a Hightower whose family seat is one of Westeros' cultural centers, has its political benefits.

Trivial question:
Did Aeonar commission to have the capital's sewers system rebuild?

―Yes

army45: This story is keeping me on the tips of my toes every chapter! You are amazing! Keep up the great work enjoying this story greatly!

―Thanks

C.E.W: So now Rhaenyra, Daemon and the children have arrived to the capital so Rhaenyra may defend her son Jacaerys' claim to the Driftwood throne against Vaemond Velaryon. The stage is set, but there is still one player yet to arrive, Vaemond Velaryon himself who I suspect will appear next chapter. Rhaenys and Baela I'm sure have already arrived, Aeonar is probably already meeting with Rhaenys in light of her answer for Baela and Jaehaerys' betrothal. That is if he is not in a council meeting first in regards to Rhaenyra arriving and the succession.

As for family reaction on their arrival. Jaehaerys, Aegon the Younger, Viserys, Aemma and Daeron I have no doubt will be happy to see their aunt and cousins. Although I can't say they will be as happy to see Daemon, except maybe Daeron. Alicent will be at least civil I'm sure, although Aeonar will likely be distant and cold.

Here's an idea on their meeting before the hearing, when Rhaenyra goes to speak to her father in the night, she might be spotted by Aeonar's agents. The agents notify Aeonar and he, with Alicent perhaps decide to head to the King's chambers to find out her motives. Aeonar sees Rhaenyra at their father's bedside. Asking him about the Song of Ice and Fire, Aeonar, him unable to bear the burden alone, her inability to help him, asking him to help Aeonar by defending her and her children.

That is when Aeonar makes his presence known. He spoke of the last time, he visited a bedridden King when he was but a small boy when King Viserys was still Prince of Dragonstone. He spoke of the promise that King Jaehaerys asked him, to keep his mother, father and sister close, that the only thing that can tear down the House of the Dragon was itself. He spoke of how he failed to keep that promise, his mother dying, him driving his father and sister away, and now House Targaryen stands divided. King Viserys might hear this, and may try to say that he did not fail, Viserys did although Aeonar might not hear it. Or perhaps Aeonar might tell the promise to King Jaehaerys to Rhaenyra earlier motivating her to visit King Viserys in the night.

Questions:

How goes Aegon the Younger and Aemma's marriage?

―You'll see in the next chapter.

Given Aeonar's punishment of Aegon the Elder, I guess there won't be Dyana the Serving girl situation?

―No, but there will be something else in place of that scene.

Vaemond Velaryon does realize that Aeonar is a dangerous man to cross, does he?

―He does, but I think his pride and ambition outweighs caution

The Red Keep decorations of Valyria and Faith of Seven? Aeonar trying to be impartial or something? Aeonar is proud of his Valyrian heritage.

―The Faith of the Seven is mostly Alicent's. And although Aeonar does acknowledge the Faith as he was blessed and married into it, he's taken up the long-forgotten Old Gods of the Valyrian pantheon like his ancestors did. So he worships both.

Is King Viserys' room better taken care of than in canon?

―His grandchildren make sure of that, yes